### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb **spáō**, represented by `{{G4685}}`, is a primary verb that means **to draw** or **draw out**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, making each of its uses particularly noteworthy. The term describes the specific action of pulling a weapon from its sheath.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{G4685}}` marks a moment of high tension and impending violence. The first instance occurs when one of Jesus's companions **drew** a sword to defend him at his arrest, striking the servant of the high priest [[Mark 14:47]]. The second appearance is in the account of the Philippian jailer who, upon seeing the prison doors open, **drew out** his sword, intending to kill himself because he believed the prisoners had escaped [[Acts 16:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are connected to the actions immediately following the use of `{{G4685}}`:
* `{{G3162}}` **máchaira**: This word for **sword** is the object being drawn in both occurrences of `{{G4685}}`, representing the instrument of violence ([[Mark 14:47]], [[Acts 16:27]]).
* `{{G3817}}` **paíō**: Defined as to **smite** or **strike**, this action immediately follows the drawing of the sword in the Garden of Gethsemane [[Mark 14:47]].
* `{{G851}}` **aphairéō**: Meaning to **cut off** or take away, this describes the result of the strike against the high priest's servant, whose ear was removed [[Mark 14:47]].
* `{{G337}}` **anairéō**: This verb, meaning to **kill** or **slay**, describes the jailer's intention after he drew his sword [[Acts 16:27]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4685}}` is found in the critical moments it initiates. Though rare, its usage highlights two key themes:
* **A Point of No Return:** The act of drawing a sword is a decisive one. In Mark, it precipitates violence in a sacred moment [[Mark 14:47]]. In Acts, it represents a turn to despair and self-destruction, averted only by divine intervention [[Acts 16:27]].
* **Human Reaction to Crisis:** Both uses of `{{G4685}}` depict an immediate, physical response to a crisis. One is an act of misguided protection, and the other is an act of ultimate despair. The verb captures the instant a situation escalates toward a violent resolution.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4685}}` is a precise and potent verb. While its usage is limited, it occurs in two highly dramatic narratives. In both cases, **spáō** signifies the drawing of a sword, an action that serves as the immediate prelude to violence, whether enacted upon another or intended for oneself. It vividly captures a moment of extreme human reaction at a pivotal turning point.
TRV